Best Bedside Crash Mats
If you are looking for bedside crash mats to support fall prevention at home or in care, you are in the right place. Our range sits alongside our broader bedroom aids and mobility aids, giving you everything you need to keep the bedroom safer and more comfortable.
What to Look for in a Bedside Crash Mat
Choosing the right crash mat comes down to a few practical details. Here is what to look for so you get the right fit the first time.
Foam Thickness and Impact Absorption
The foam core is the most important part. A 5 cm high-density foam mat provides solid cushioning for most home situations and sits low enough that stepping over it is straightforward. For higher-risk situations, such as someone who spends more time in bed or who has been assessed by an occupational therapist as needing extra protection, a thicker 7-10 cm mat is worth considering. Look for high-impact foam, not soft upholstery foam, as the difference in energy absorption is significant.
Non-Slip Base and Bevelled Edges
A non-slip base keeps the mat stable on hard floors and carpet. This matters both for the person who might land on it and for carers or family members walking past at night. Bevelled edges (sloped rather than square) reduce the chance of anyone catching a toe on the corner. A reflective strip around the edge adds visibility in low light, which is particularly useful for dementia care.
Folding and Easy Storage
Most quality bedside crash mats fold into two or three hinged sections. This makes it easy to fold the mat away during the day when the bed needs to be made, then lay it flat again at night. A folding design also makes cleaning simpler: wipe down each section with a damp cloth. Look for a vinyl or nylon cover rather than fabric, as it resists moisture and cleans quickly.
Who Uses Bedside Crash Mats
Bedside crash mats are used in a range of settings. The product is the same; the context differs slightly.
Home Use for Older Australians
At home, a crash mat gives genuine peace of mind for the person sleeping in the bed and for family members who worry during the night. It works well alongside other bed grab bars and bed rails that help with getting in and out safely. For home use, a standard 5 cm folding mat in a neutral colour fits neatly under most beds when stored away.
Aged Care and Hospital Settings
In aged care facilities and hospitals, crash mats are used as part of a broader falls management plan. They are positioned beside low-profile or floor-level beds and are often used alongside falls detection devices. Facilities typically need a mat that meets Australian safety standards, cleans easily between residents, and stores flat. Our range includes options suited to both home and professional care environments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bedside Crash Mats
Do bedside crash mats actually reduce injuries from falls?
Yes. High-density foam absorbs impact and cushions the landing, which can significantly reduce bruising, fractures and soft-tissue injuries when someone rolls or slides out of bed. They work best when positioned flat against the side of the bed each night.
How do I choose the right thickness for a bedside crash mat?
A mat that is 5 cm thick suits most home situations and is low enough to step over safely. Thicker mats (7-10 cm) are used in aged care settings where higher fall risk has been assessed by an occupational therapist (OT). If you are unsure, your OT can advise on the right thickness for the individual's needs.
Can bedside crash mats be used in dementia care?
Yes. They are widely used in dementia care because people with dementia are more likely to attempt to leave the bed unassisted. Look for a mat with a reflective strip around the edge for visibility in low light. A folding design makes it easy to move when the bed needs to be made.
Can I use my Home Care Package or NDIS funding to buy a bedside crash mat?
In many cases, yes. Bedside crash mats are classified as assistive technology under both the Home Care Package (HCP) and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). A recommendation from your OT or GP supports the funding application. Give us a call and we can help with a quote for your funding provider.
We are here to help. If you have questions about sizing, materials or funding, give us a call and we will talk it through.